Modular structure

ABSTRACT

A modular structure includes a first container and a second container. The modular structure also includes at least two locking devices, wherein the at least two locking devices couple the first container to the second container. The first and second containers have a compact configuration and an expanded configuration. In the expanded configuration the first and second containers are separated by a distance that is greater than distance of separation in the compact configuration.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/545,094, U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/545,097, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/545,103, each of which was filed on Oct. 7, 2011, the contents of each application is expressly incorporated by reference in entirety.

FIELD OF THE TECHNOLOGY

The present disclosure relates generally to a structure having modular components. More specifically, embodiments within this disclosure provide a modular structure that can be deployed easily from a consolidated configuration to an expanded configuration.

BACKGROUND OF THE TECHNOLOGY

Mobile units have been deployed to serve as temporary shelters and to provide for medical facilities. These mobile units are often of two types. One type is a large and heavy unit that accommodates a variety of different devices. However, the movement of this type of unit is very limited requiring special transportation arrangements. The other unit is a light weight unit such as a tent. However, supplies and the shelter must be separated in the light weight units.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Implementations of the present application will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached figures, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of exemplarily components of the modular structure according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a compact configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a mobile installation configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 4 is another perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a mobile installation configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 5 is perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a mobile configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a transition configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 7 is another perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in a transition configuration according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in an expanded configuration before the panels are installed according to an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in an expanded configuration having some of the panels in an installed configuration according an exemplarily embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a another perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure in an expanded configuration having some of the panels in an installed configuration including roof panels according an exemplarily embodiment; and

FIG. 11 is an exemplarily perspective view of the first container and second container in the expanded configuration having a stretcher positioned therebetween according to an exemplarily embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the implementations described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the implementations described herein can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods, procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the related relevant function being described. Also, the description is not to be considered as limiting the scope of the implementations described herein.

The present disclosure concerns a modular structure including a first container and a second container. The modular structure also includes at least two locking devices. The at least two locking devices couple the first container to the second container. The modular structure has at least a compact configuration and an expanded configuration. The first and second containers have a compact configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the first and second containers are separated by a distance that is greater than a distance of separation in the compact configuration. The present disclosure contemplates a variety of different components that can be used in combination with the modular structure to achieve additional functionality and/or benefits as will be exemplified below. These features can be included either alone or in combination with other components as described herein.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of exemplarily components of the modular structure 100 according to an exemplarily embodiment. The modular structure 100 includes a first container 110 and a second container 120. The first container 110 has a height H1, a width W1, and a length L1. While the first container 110 is shown to be substantially a rectangular cuboid, other shapes and configurations are considered within the scope of this disclosure. The second container likewise has a height H2, a width W2, and a length L2. As illustrated, the height H1 of the first container 110 is substantially the same as the height H2 of the second container 120. Additionally as illustrated, the length L1 of the first container 110 is substantially the same as the length L2 of the second container 120. However, the illustrated width W1 of the first container 110 is less than the width W2 of the second container. Having one container (here the second container) allows one container to serve as a hitch attachment point as will be described later.

In at least one example, the first container 110 can have a width W1 of one foot-eight inches, a height H1 of three feet, and a length L1 of eight feet. In at least one example, the second container 120 can have a width W2 of two foot-four inches, a height H2 of three feet, and a length L2 of eight feet. Thus, when the first container 110 and the second container 120 are positioned adjacent one another in a compact configuration, the overall width is about four feet. These dimensions are given for illustrative purposes only and other dimensions are considered within the scope of this disclosure. Additionally, in at least one embodiment it is preferred to limit the width to four feet, but allow for varying widths of the first container 110 and the second container 120. In at least one embodiment, a buffer material can be sandwiched between the first container 110 and the second container 120 to buffer the interfacing of the interior faces 111 and 121 respectively from one another.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, the modular structure 100 can include at least one locking device 140. In at least one embodiment, the modular structure 100 can include at least two locking devices 140. In yet other embodiments, the modular structure 100 can include three or more locking devices 140. As illustrated, the at least one locking device 140 is a locking tube. As indicated above, there can be at least two locking tubes 140. Each of the at least two locking tubes 140 can be configured to be releasably coupled at a first end 142 to the first container 110 and a second end 144 to the second container 120.

The modular structure 100 can further include a plurality of panels 130. The plurality of panels can be configured to be releasably coupled to at least one of a top surface (112, 122) of the first container 110 or second container 120. In at least one embodiment, the plurality of panels 130 can be configured to be interconnected with one another when they are coupled to at least one of a top surface (112, 122) of the first container 110 or second container 120.

The modular structure 100 can also include a tow hitch 180, wheels 170, and at least two expansion devices 150. The expansion devices 150 have a first end 152 and a second end 154. Additional details regarding the tow hitch 180, wheels and the at least two expansion devices 150 will be explained below. While at least two expansion devices are illustrated herein, the present disclosure contemplates that a single expansion device can be implemented.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a modular structure 100 in a compact configuration 102 according to an exemplarily embodiment. As illustrated the first container 110 and the second container 120 substantially abut one another. As indicated above, in at least one embodiment, a buffer material can be inserted between the first container 110 and the second container 120. As illustrated the at least two wheels 170 are coupled to the one of the containers 110, 120 and/or the panels 130. As illustrated the first container 110 can include at least one support member 195 fixedly attached to the first container 110. The at least one support member 195 can be configured to receive fork members of a forklift (not shown). The at least one support member 195 can also be configured to accommodate a sling being passed therethrough. In the illustrated embodiment, the at least one support member 195 comprises at least two ribs 195. The two ribs 195 raise the bottom of the first container above the ground. Additionally, one 197 of the at least two ribs 195 can configured to receive an expansion device 150. The accommodation of the expansion device 150 within the rib 197 allows for storage of the expansion device 150 during shipment. The expansion device 150 can be held in place with locking mechanism or other securement devices. Likewise, the second container 120 can include at least one support member 190 fixedly attached to the second container 120. The at least one support member 190 can be configured to receive fork members of a forklift. The at least one support member 190 comprises at least two ribs 191. As illustrated, there are three ribs 191. One 192 of the at least two ribs 191 is configured to receive an expansion device 150, which can be as described above.

When the modular support structure 100 is in the compact configuration 102 as illustrated in FIG. 2, the modular support structure 100 can be shipped via air freight, train, trailer or the like. The support members 190, 195 can further accommodate the modular support structure being drug along the ground. In at least one embodiment, the modular support structure 100 can be provided with strap securement points for affixing a sling for helicopter or crane transport. Additionally, the modular support structure 100 can include a pulley system or the like for movement of the modular support structure 100 a short distance. Other securement devices are also considered within the scope of this disclosure such as rings, eyebolts and the like to accommodate securement of other cables, straps, and the like to a tow vehicle. In at least one embodiment, a parachute and parachute harness can also be included. When the parachute and parachute harness are included, the modular structure 100 can be dropped from plane. In at least one embodiment, the modular structure 100 can be sized so as to fit within the cargo hold of a CASA 212 type aircraft. Other similar aircraft can also accommodate this modular structure 100. Additionally, the modular structure 100 can be sized to fit on a standard military pallet.

In at least one embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 2, a pair of wheels 170 can be located on the top of the plurality of panels 130. The wheels 170 along with the hitch 180 can be installed on the modular support structure 100 to transform the modular support structure 100 into a towable structure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure 100 in a mobile installation configuration 104 according to an exemplarily embodiment. As illustrated, the hitch 180 has been installed on the second container 120. A pair of jacks 200 is illustrated, but in at least one embodiment a single jack can be implemented instead. The pair of jacks 200 raises one side of the modular support structure off of the ground to accommodate a wheel 170 being mounted to the modular support structure 100.

With one side of the modular support structure 100 raised, the wheel 170 can be installed on the modular support structure 100. As illustrated the wheel 170 is mounted on the first container 110. In at least one embodiment, when the modular support structure 100 is configured for wheels 170, the modular support structure 100 can further include at least two wheel hubs. The at least two wheel hubs can be configured to be releasably engaged with one of the first container 110 or the second container 120. In one embodiment, one of the at least two wheel hubs is configured to be releasably engaged with the first container 110 and one of the at least two wheel hubs is configured to be releasably engaged with the second container 120. In at least one embodiment, the modular support structure 100 further includes at least one axle, wherein the at least one axle is coupled to both the first container 110 and the second container 120. In order to provide shock absorption, the at least one axle can be a torsion axle. In another embodiment, at least one roller can be implemented either instead of the wheels 170 or in addition to the wheels 170. The at least one roller can be coupled to at least one of the first container 110 or the second container 120. In one embodiment, the at least one roller can be coupled to both the first container 110 and the second container 120.

Once the wheels 170 and tow hitch 180 are installed on the modular structure 100, the modular structure 100 is in a towing configuration 105 as illustrated in FIG. 5. In the towing configuration 105, the panels 130 remain on the top surface of the first container 110 and the second container 120. The wheels 170 can be sized so that the modular structure 100 clears the terrain where the modular structure 100 is located.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplarily modular structure 100 in a transition configuration 106. The modular structure 100 includes at least one expansion device 150. As illustrated the modular structure 100 includes two expansion devices 150. The at least one expansion device 150 is configured to allow for separation of the first container 110 and the second container 120 from the compact configuration to the expanded configuration 108. The at least one expansion device 150 can be coupled at a first end to one of the first container 110 or the second container 120. The at least one expansion device 150 can be coupled at a second end to a jack 200. As illustrated, there are two expansion devices 150. The two expansion devices are coupled at a first end to the second container and at a second end to a respective jack 200. The jack 200 can be a manual jack, a hydraulic jack or other structure that is capable of raising the modular structure 100 above the ground. As illustrated the first container 110 is located between the second container 120 and the jacks 200. In other embodiments, the direction of coupling can be reversed so that the first end of the expansion device 150 is coupled to the first container 110 and the second end is coupled to the jack 200. This can be useful in circumstances where clearance on one side of the modular structure 100 is more limited than the other side.

FIG. 7 illustrates the exemplarily modular structure 100 at another point in a transition configuration 106. As illustrated, the first container 110 is being moved along the expansion devices 150. The expansion devices 150 can include a worm gear drive to pull the first container 110 along the expansion device. In another embodiment, another type of gearing structure can be implemented. In yet another embodiment, the first container 110 and second container 120 can be fitted with grease fittings to accommodate sliding along the expansion device 150. As shown in FIG. 7, the panels 130 have been removed and placed alongside of the modular structure 100 for later installation. Other mechanisms can be used to assist in moving one of the first container 110 or second container 120 along the expansion device 150. Other expansion devices 150 that accommodate the relative movement of the first container 110 and the second container 120 as described herein are considered within the scope of this disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure 100 in an expanded configuration 108 before the panels 130. As illustrated, the first container 110 has been moved so that it substantially abuts the jacks 200 and a distance D is provided between the interior side 111 of the first container 110 and the interior side 121 of the second container 120. The expansion devices 150 can form a floor support structure as illustrated. The floor support structure accommodates at least one floor panel 131 being configured to be placed on top of the floor support structure as illustrated in FIG. 9. As illustrated the floor panel 131 spans the distance D between the first container 110 and the second container 120.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure 100 in an expanded configuration having some of the panels in an installed configuration. At least one side panel 132 is coupled at a first end 138 to one of the first container 110 or the second container 120 in the expanded configuration 108, thereby forming a wall. As illustrated, the floor panel 131 is installed. In at least one embodiment, the floor panel 131 can be a single panel. In other embodiments, the floor panel 131 can include multiple panels. Additionally, as illustrated the modular structure 100 includes a right side panel 132 and a left side panel 133 and rear panel 134. The right side panel 132 is coupled to second container 120 at a first end 138. The left side panel 133 is coupled at a first end to the first container 110. In other embodiments, the side panels can be configured according to the particular deployment. Likewise, the rear panel 134 can be configured according to the desired deployment. For example, the rear panel 134 can form a solid barrier. In other embodiments, no rear panel can be included and instead a curtain or other suitable structure can be put in its place. Additionally, the rear panel 134 can include one or more panels 130.

The right side panel 132 and left side panel 133 can be further equipped to hang various supplies. For example, when the modular structure is implemented as a medical service station, the right side panel 132 and left side panel 133 can include hangers for medical devices, medical supplies, blood transfusion bags, iv bags, and other similar devices. In other implementations, the modular structure can be implemented as a mobile communication station. The side panels 132, 133 can be further configured to accommodate installation of various communication equipment. Other deployments can likewise be accommodated.

FIG. 10 is another perspective view of an exemplarily modular structure 100 in an expanded configuration having some of the panels 130 in an installed configuration including roof panels 135. As illustrated, there are two rear side panels 136, 137 as compared to the single rear panel 134 as illustrated in FIG. 9. In this configuration, the rear panels 136, 137 can be configured to allow a door to be installed therebetween. The modular structure 100 includes at least one roof panel 135. In the illustrated example, two roof panels 135 are included. As shown, the roof panels 135 are substantially the same size. In one embodiment, the roof panels 135 can be sized so as to share the footprint of the top surface of the first container 110 and the second container 120 in the compact configuration. As illustrated, the side panel 132 is coupled at a first end 138 to the second container 120 and a second end 139 to a roof panel 135. Each roof panel 135 can be coupled at a first end to a first side panel 132 and at a second end to a second side panel 133.

FIG. 11 is an exemplarily perspective view of the first container 110 and second container 120 in the expanded configuration having a stretcher 210 positioned therebetween according to an exemplarily embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 11, the modular structure is being used as a medical facility. As illustrated, a stretcher 210 spans between the first container 110 and the second container 120. Alternatively, the top surface 122 of the second container 120 can be sized so as to accommodate the stretcher being placed along its length.

Each of the first container 110 and the second container 120 have an interior accommodation space. The interior accommodation space can be equipped for various types of deployments. A few examples of components that can be accommodated within the accommodation space are described herein. Other components can be included in addition to the ones described herein. While some examples are given with respect to one container or the other, it should be appreciated that the components can be accommodated within either one of the first or second containers. As illustrated, a generator 220 can be mounted within the accommodation space of the first container 110. Additionally, an air conditioner 250 is shown within the accommodation space of the first container 110. Furthermore, a power source 230 in the form of batteries is illustrated within the accommodation space of the first container. Additionally, fuel cans 240 can be placed within the accommodation space. The placement of various supplies within the accommodation space provides for easy shipment and deployment as collecting of various supplies is not required as all of the supplies are located within the modular structure 100, namely within one of the first container 110 or the second container 120.

When the modular structure is deployed for medical purposes as illustrated, medical supplies can be within the interior accommodation space in one of the first or second containers. The medical supplies can be within special containers within the accommodation space or located within specialized drawers or other structure built into the accommodation space of one of the first or second containers.

In order to accommodate installation of various components within the accommodation space or removal therefrom, a plurality of apertures can be formed on an interior facing side (111, 121) of each of the first container 110 and the second container 120, wherein the interior facing side (111, 121) of the first container 110 and the second container 120 face one another. In at least one embodiment, closures can be included to close the apertures. In one example, the closures are hinged doors. In another example, the closures are removable access doors.

In addition or instead of the above described components various other components can be included. For example, computer equipment can be located within the interior accommodation space in one of the first or second containers. Additionally, communication equipment can be located within the interior accommodation space in one of the first or second containers. Examples of communication equipment include satellite communication equipment, WI-FI equipment, cellular equipment, Wi-Max equipment, POTS equipment, GPS location equipment, laser based communication equipment, various RF equipment, and short wave equipment. Still further, refrigeration can be located within the interior accommodation space in one of the first or second containers. In yet other implementations, water purification equipment can be located within the interior accommodation space in one of the first or second containers. Additionally, food, solar arrays, wind powered generators, fuel cells and the like can be included. Other components can be included as needed based on the deployment of the modular structure 100.

In at least one embodiment, when the modular structure 100 is configured for use as a medical facility, it can be equipped so as to provide for telemedicine. For example, the modular structure 100 can include cameras, communication equipment such as satellite or cellular, remote medical monitors for example remote EKG monitors, blood pressure monitors, and the like. In at least one embodiment, remote controlled robots can be included. Additionally, display screens can be included to conference with a doctor that is in a hospital or other location that is some distance away from the modular structure 100. Other devices necessary to conduct telemedicine can be included as well.

When deployed in a military or other hostile environment, the first and second containers can also accommodate ammunition, explosive materials, and other military equipment. In at least one embodiment, when the modular structure 100 is configured as command post, drones or other reconnaissance equipment can be included. Additionally, the communication equipment can be secure transmission and reception equipment. For example, encrypted satellite communication equipment, line of sight laser communication equipment and the like.

Additionally, the modular structure 100 as described herein can be configured to float in at least the compact configuration 102. In at least one embodiment, the modular structure 100 can also float in the expanded configuration 108. Furthermore, the modular structure 100 can also include one or more coatings according to its area of deployment. For example, the first container 110 and second container 120 can include an anti-fungal coating. Another coating that can be implemented is an anti-microbial coating to inhibit growth of microbes which is useful when the modular structure is implemented to provide medical care. The anti-microbial coating can be included on all surfaces of the modular structure 100 or selected surfaces of the modular structure 100. Another coating that can be implemented is an anti-graffiti coating. Yet another coating is a waterproof coating. Still another coating is a fire resistant coating. When the modular structure 100 is deployed in hostile environments, it can include blast coatings, ballistic coatings and the like.

While the above coatings have been described in relation to the first container 110 and the second container 120, the panels 130 can also include one or more of the above described coatings. Additionally, the modular structure 100 can be configured such that the first container 110 and the second container 120 are air-tight.

Example implementations have been described hereinabove regarding various example embodiments. The example embodiments are intended to constitute non-limiting examples. The subject matter that is intended to be within this disclosure is set forth in the following claims. 

1. A modular structure comprising: a first container; a second container; at least two locking devices, wherein the at least two locking devices couple the first container to the second container.
 2. The modular structure of claim 1, wherein the at least two locking devices comprise at least two locking tubes.
 3. The modular structure of claim 2, wherein the at least two locking tubes are each configured to be releasably coupled at a first end to the first container and at a second end to the second container.
 4. The modular structure of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of panels.
 5. The modular structure of claim 4, wherein the plurality of panels being configured to be releasably coupled to at least one of a top surface of the first or second container.
 6. The modular structure of claim 5, wherein the plurality of panels are configured to be interconnected with one another when they are coupled to at least one of a top surface of the first or second container.
 7. The modular structure of claim 1, further comprising a tow hitch, wherein the tow hitch is configured to be releasably engaged with one of the first container or the second container.
 8. The modular structure of claim 1, further comprising at least two wheel hubs, wherein the at least two wheel hubs are configured to be releasably engaged with one of the first container or the second container.
 9. The modular structure of claim 8, wherein one of the at least two wheel hubs is configured to be releasably engaged with the first container.
 10. The modular structure of claim 8, wherein one of the at least two wheel hubs is configured to be releasably engaged with the second container.
 11. The modular structure of claim 8, further comprising at least two wheels, wherein each of the at least one wheel is coupled to a corresponding one of the at least two wheel hubs.
 12. The modular structure of claim 8, further comprising at least one axle, wherein the at least one axle is coupled to both the first container and the second container.
 13. The modular structure of claim 8, further comprising at least one roller, wherein the at least one roller is coupled to at least one of the first container or the second container.
 14. The modular structure of claim 8, further comprising at least one jack, wherein the jack is configured to lift the modular structure.
 15. The modular structure of claim 8, wherein the first and second containers have a compact configuration and an expanded configuration, wherein in the expanded configuration the first and second containers are separated by a distance that is greater than a distance of separation in the compact configuration.
 16. The modular structure of claim 15, further comprising at least one expansion device, wherein the at least one expansion device is configured to allow for separation of the first and second container from the compact configuration to the expanded configuration.
 17. The modular structure of claim 16, wherein the at least one expansion device comprises at least two expansion devices, wherein the at least two expansion devices form a floor support structure.
 18. The modular structure of claim 17, wherein the at least two expansion devices are coupled at a first end to one of the first or second containers and a jack at a second end thereof such that the other one of the first or second container is between the jack and the first end.
 19. The modular structure of claim 18, wherein the other one of the first or second container moves along the at least two expansion devices between the compact configuration and expanded configuration.
 20. The modular structure of claim 17, further comprising at least one floor panel, wherein the at least one floor panel is configured to be placed on top of the floor support structure in the expanded configuration. 21-55. (canceled) 